Classic Tibet Trip 11 days

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), a representative from Nirvana Journeys will greet you and handle your private transfer to your hotel. This day is reserved for settling in, relaxing after your international flight, and attending a brief orientation meeting about the Tibet tour ahead, including the handover of necessary documents and a discussion on high-altitude preparation. You'll spend the night acclimatizing to the vibrant energy of Kathmandu.

Your intensive Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing begins by exploring some of Nepal's most significant cultural and religious sites:

• Boudhanath Stupa: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal, the center of Tibetan Buddhism in the region. You will observe monks and devotees circumambulating the structure, turning prayer wheels.
• Pashupatinath Temple: Witness the sacred Hindu ceremonies and cremation rituals along the Bagmati River, offering a profound glimpse into life and death beliefs.
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Step back in time in this medieval city, renowned for its intricate architecture, 55-window palace, and golden gate.

The second day of sightseeing focuses on the historical centers of the valley:

• Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Climb the steps to this ancient Buddhist Chaitya atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the entire Kathmandu Valley.
• Kathmandu Durbar Square: Explore the former royal palace complex, surrounded by temples, courtyards, and the home of the Living Goddess, Kumari.
• Patan Durbar Square: Discover the "City of Fine Arts," known for its Newari architecture and exquisite craftsmanship, particularly around the Krishna Mandir.

This third day in Kathmandu offers a balanced mix of optional cultural exploration and essential preparation for your flight to Lhasa. You may use this day for a final walk through the bustling streets of Thamel, last-minute souvenir shopping, or simply resting to ensure you are fully prepared and energized for the altitude change ahead. We recommend organizing your gear and essentials for the Tibet portion of your journey.

This is a pivotal travel day. You will be transferred to TIA for a breathtaking flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa. The one-hour flight offers spectacular, unparalleled views of the towering Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA), you will be transferred to your hotel in the city center.

Crucially, the rest of this day is dedicated entirely to rest and acclimatization. Do not engage in strenuous activity. We emphasize slow movement, deep breaths, and drinking plenty of water to help your body adjust to the 3,650-meter elevation.

Your first full day of Lhasa sightseeing focuses on the spiritual core of the city:

• Jokhang Temple: Visit the most sacred monastery in Tibet, housing the Jowo Shakyamuni image, a statue of the Buddha believed to have been personally blessed by the Buddha himself. You will witness deep devotion as Tibetan pilgrims prostrate themselves before the shrine.
• Barkhor Street: Walk the pilgrim circumambulation route that encircles the temple. This is a sensory experience, a vibrant and bustling marketplace filled with local vendors, pilgrims, and traditional Tibetan goods.

Day 7 takes you to Tibet's two most iconic architectural and historical sites:

• Norbulingka (The Jewel Park): Start with a visit to the tranquil summer palace of the Dalai Lamas. You'll explore the various palaces and serene gardens where the Dalai Lamas would reside during the warmer months, offering a peaceful contrast to the massive scale of the Potala.
• Potala Palace: In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Potala Palace. This vast fortress, perched majestically on the Marpo Ri hill, was the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. You will explore the White Palace (administrative center) and the Red Palace (religious center), admiring the golden stupas and chapels.

Explore the two great monastic universities of the Gelug school:

• Drepung Monastery: Once the largest monastery in the world, housing thousands of monks, Drepung offers a fascinating insight into the vast scale of monastic education in Tibet's past.
• Sera Monastery: Witness the highlight of the day—the famous monk debates. Every afternoon (except Sundays), monks gather in the debating courtyard to practice their dialectic skills, a lively and expressive spectacle that should not be missed.

Enjoy a beautiful scenic drive out of Lhasa to the stunning Yamdrok Lake.

• Yamdrok Lake: This sacred turquoise body of water, meaning "Jade Lake," is one of the three largest holy lakes in Tibet. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the views from the vantage points are simply breathtaking and provide a perfect opportunity for photography and quiet contemplation before returning to Lhasa for your final night.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. This evening is a chance to reflect on your incredible Tibet exploration and enjoy a final celebratory dinner in the vibrant city of Kathmandu.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final Nepali breakfast or last-minute souvenir shopping. A Nirvana Journeys representative will ensure a smooth, timely transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure, carrying with you memories of the majestic Roof of the World.